To determine which options would result in an increased amount of groundwater, we need to analyze the responses based on typical hydrogeological concepts:
- Generally, groundwater recharge increases with a decrease in variables like impervious surfaces or human activities that prevent water from seeping into the ground (e.g., less concrete, fewer buildings, etc.).
- An increase in precipitation (if Z refers to this) would also help recharge groundwater by allowing more water to penetrate the soil.
Assuming:
- X refers to impervious surfaces (like concrete).
- Y could refer to precipitation or recharge rate.
- Z might be related to factors that promote groundwater recharge (like rain).
Considering this, the two options that would likely result in an increased amount of groundwater are:
- B: A decrease in Y (if Y refers to activities that decrease groundwater recharge).
- E: An increase in Z (if Z refers to precipitation or factors leading to increased water infiltration).
So the responses that would correspond to an increased amount of groundwater are likely B and E.